Health Topics
Food Safety

Approximately 76 million cases of foodborne illness are reported in
the United States annually, resulting in an average of 325,000
hospitalizations and 5,000 deaths.1

Each day, more than 27 million children get their lunch through the
National School Lunch Program.2

Food is prepared in schools by foodservice staff and is brought into
the school environment from vendors and the homes of students and staff.
Therefore, a comprehensive approach is needed to ensure food safety in
schools.3

Approximately two-thirds of food counter and fountain workers in the
United States are aged 16–19.4

Schools are settings for teaching youth health-enhancing behaviors that
last a life time… at home and at work.

Data & Statistics

School Health Policies and Programs Study
SHPPS is a national survey periodically conducted to assess school health
policies and programs at the state, district, school, and classroom
levels, including those related to food service.

Health Education Curriculum Analysis Tool
(HECAT). The Health Education Curriculum Analysis Tool (HECAT) can help
school districts, schools, and others conduct a clear, complete, and
consistent analysis of health education curricula based on the National
Health Education Standards and CDC’s Characteristics of Effective Health
Education Curricula. The HECAT results can help schools select or develop
appropriate and effective health education curricula and improve the
delivery of health education to address food safety and other health
education topics. The HECAT can be customized to meet local community needs
and conform to the curriculum requirements of the state or school district.

United States Bureau of Labor Statistics; Division of
Labor Force Statistics. (1998) Unpublished tabulations form the current
population survey. See Table 12., Employed persons by detailed
occupation, sex, and age, annual average.